21 MPG combined might seem underwhelming at first. But understanding the context is important. This isn’t a compact sedan or a hybrid hatchback. It’s the 2016 Ram 1500 HFE 2WD, a full-size pickup truck designed for capability and durability. The HFE (“High Fuel Efficiency”) variant specifically targets buyers who need a truck’s utility but want better fuel economy instead of off-road performance or maximum towing. Farmers, contractors who primarily do local jobs, and even some fleet operators are the most likely owners of this Ram.

City and highway performance

The 2016 Ram 1500 HFE gets 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. This shows the benefits of its 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine and the smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission. The city number is decent for a truck of this size, because of the engine’s responsive nature and the transmission’s ability to keep it in the optimal power band. The highway MPG is particularly good, demonstrating the truck’s aerodynamic efficiency (for a truck!) and the powertrain’s ability to cruise comfortably at lower RPMs, saving fuel on long stretches.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Ram 1500 HFE at $2,100. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a specific percentage of those miles driven in the city versus on the highway, and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. While individual fuel costs will vary based on local gas prices and driving habits, $2,100 provides a good benchmark for potential owners to assess fuel expenses when budgeting for truck ownership.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, but real-world fuel economy always varies. The 2016 Ram 1500 HFE is particularly sensitive to driving style and load. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and hauling heavy loads will reduce fuel economy. On the other hand, a driver who accelerates smoothly, anticipates traffic, and keeps the bed relatively empty will likely achieve figures closer to, or even slightly better than, the EPA estimates. Tire pressure also plays a critical role; properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance and improve MPG.

How it compares

The 2016 Ram 1500 HFE stacked up reasonably well against its contemporaries in terms of fuel economy. A comparable 2016 Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6, in its most efficient configuration, offered similar highway numbers but slightly lower city MPG. A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 4.3L V6 was typically rated a bit lower in both city and highway driving. For buyers prioritizing fuel savings, the Ram 1500 HFE was a strong vehicle, especially since it offers more traditional truck styling than some competitors. See all Ram fuel economy data to understand the range of available options and how the HFE trim balances efficiency with capability. You can see more details on 1500 MPG across all years to help see what year might be the best fit.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 8-speed automatic transmission helps with fuel efficiency in the 2016 Ram 1500 HFE. Let the transmission do its job by avoiding aggressive acceleration. The transmission is designed to quickly shift into higher gears and keep the engine in its most efficient operating range, maximizing your MPG.

Pay attention to payload. The HFE might be a truck, but it’s not invincible when it comes to fuel economy. Hauling unnecessary weight, either in the bed or inside the cabin, will hurt MPG. Only carry what you absolutely need for the task.

Tire pressure is important. Regularly check and maintain the recommended tire pressure, which can be found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy, so keeping them properly inflated can make a small, but noticeable, difference.

Anticipate traffic flow to avoid unnecessary braking and acceleration. Coasting to a stop, rather than slamming on the brakes, conserves momentum and reduces fuel consumption. A smooth and predictable driving style is key to maximizing fuel efficiency in any vehicle, but especially in a full-size truck.